Calls to end domestic violence, poverty and discrimination were made at rallies for the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day in Vancouver on Saturday.
Dozens marched from the women's monument at Thornton Park at Main Street and Terminal Avenue, to Victory Square at Hastings and Cambie for a noon hour rally.
Demonstrators say Canadian women, especially aboriginals and single mothers, struggle to make ends meet and get little help from the government.
Janine Solanki, one of the volunteer organizers for Women's Day in Vancouver, spoke to CTV News.
"We're not being complacent with some of the funding cuts, some of the service cuts that have been brought by the government to women and to Canada," she said.
"It's very empowering to be out here, with women -- and men too -- who are supporting us."
Organizers say women all over the world are marching for an end to all violence against women, housing, universal childcare, pay equity, rights for indigenous women and migrant workers, and freedom, equality and social justice.
Parades, rallies, speakers and other events were also held in cities across the country, despite extreme weather in Eastern Canada.
The date is recognized as a national holiday by many countries and is commemorated by the United Nations.
With files from The Canadian Press
